Mapbox Japan LLC
Mapbox supports new navigation development for BMW and MINI
Adopting Mapbox’s navigation development solution enables innovative navigation experiences that support 3D maps, EV charging plan routes, etc.
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*This press material is based on a partial translation of the press release issued by Mapbox Inc. on December 19, 2023 (local time). The navigation system development solution provided by Mapbox, a leading company in digital map and location information platforms, has been adopted in the new model “BMW/MINI Operating System 9” announced by the BMW Group.
New features include an immersive 3D map style with detailed buildings and dynamic lighting, and sophisticated navigation features such as charging-optimized route planning. Using advanced map styling tools, 3D building data and a high-performance map rendering engine from Mapbox, the BMW Group can flexibly integrate data from numerous sources and providers and publish continuous and frequent updates. It is now possible to do so.
This system is installed in the BMW X1 and the new MINI family, and is planned to be installed in other models such as the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and BMW X2 in the future.
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Mobile phone navigation apps have become the new standard for real-time road and traffic information, but Mapbox’s technology takes it a step further by directly integrating vehicle and navigation, especially for electric vehicles. Both MINI and BMW have adopted “Mapbox for EV,” which was developed to meet the needs of EVs, such as cruising range prediction and EV-optimized routing. Integrated into the BMW and MINI navigation experience, EV Routes takes into account vehicle characteristics, road data and charging station data to help drivers plan safer, more efficient and personalized trips.
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Mapbox’s services are also integrated with the BMW Group’s cloud systems, allowing BMW to display relevant content to drivers, such as partner charging stations and authorized service centres.
While the latest data is available when the vehicle is connected, the vehicle downloads map data predictively, allowing drivers to seamlessly continue using navigation even when out of coverage area. BMW places its spacious curved display in the optimal position for the driver, while MINI attracts users with distinctive displays such as a circular screen placed in the center of the dashboard. .
Mapbox’s highly adaptable, high-performance map rendering technology selects the optimal display resolution to improve user visibility for any screen layout or map presentation. Furthermore, with the Mapbox Navigation SDK, it is possible to display multiple links of maps and routes on the center display, information cluster, and head-up display.
■Comment from BMW Group SVP Stephane Dullahy
BMW customers expect a navigation experience that lives up to the brand’s standards of excellence. We want an experience that rivals the precision and freshness of a smartphone, while blending seamlessly into BMW’s iconic design and integrating with in-car systems such as the EV drivetrain and audio. Mapbox provides the ideal technology to accomplish both of these goals.
■Comments from Michael Württemberger, Vice President of BMW Group Business Line My Journey
The digital experience in the new MINI is centered around the Experience Mode, which allows the driver to personalize the vehicle, changing navigation through ambient lights, sounds and the unique flexibility of Mapbox.
■Comment from Mapbox CEO Peter Sirota
Mapbox’s vision is to provide our customers with an exceptional navigation experience that reflects the uniqueness of each brand. Our technology is enhanced by continuous updates to navigation systems, ensuring we remain at the forefront of innovation even after launch. ■About Mapbox
Mapbox is a leading map and location platform that powers a new generation of location-enabled applications. Mapbox is the only platform that provides businesses with a complete set of tools to navigate people, packages, and vehicles anywhere, with flexibility, security, and privacy compliance, and has over 4 million registered users. 40% of developers and Fortune 500 companies choose Mapbox. Mapbox’s applications, data, SDKs, and APIs enable businesses to create customized, immersive experiences for their users.
■Mapbox Japan LLC Company Profile
Head office: Inside WeWork, 1-10-5 Nishinomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo Established: March 10, 2020
Representative: Toru Takada (CEO)
Business details: 1. Resale business of Mapbox Inc.’s products and services to Japanese customers
2. Map-related platform business that customizes and expands the functionality of Mapbox products
URL: https://www.mapbox.jp